One side of my hand the pinkie and ring finger is numb what is it?

I had a couple of falls this winter not sure if that did it. I am type 2 diabetic and my feet get quite numb, this problem with my hand and up to my elbow is very strange . It also gets painful I have problems gripping anything and opening and shuting my hand. My Doctor says it is my nerves in my hand and arm but says it should return to normal. I am not so sure about that. Can anyone help?